About Us
Feeding the minds that feed the world

Envision what the very best minds in food science can achieve when they work together: providing each and every person on the planet with access to a safe, healthy, abundant food supply, both today and tomorrow.

Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has been unlocking the potential of the food science community by creating a dynamic global forum where members from more than 95 countries can share, learn, and grow, transforming scientific knowledge into innovative solutions throughout the food system for the benefit of people around the world.

We’ve helped the members of this community connect both in person, through scientific and technical education venues and forums such as the world’s largest annual food expo, and virtually, through our publications and other resources.

By serving as an independent voice for food science and a catalyst for change around the world, we educate a variety of audiences—from consumers and the media to the public policy community and government agencies.

As a scientific society with vision, IFT is feeding the minds that feed the world.

IFT Kicks Off New Game as Part of Anticipatory Foresight Initiative
In 2014, IFT launched the Anticipatory Foresight Planning Initiative to explore future trends that may have a critical impact on food science and technology. In February, you can participate in FoodQuest, a massive online open game that allows you to explore what the future may hold in the year 2030. Learn more about how you can participate on Feb. 26-28. (Member login required)

FutureFood 2050
In 2014, IFT launched FutureFood 2050, a new program which focuses on telling the story of food science to a broader audience, including the general public. Under the FutureFood 2050 umbrella, we’ve been conducting interviews with prominent individuals both within and outside of the food world. Their stories, crafted by an editorial team, are helping to create a dialogue on the promise of the profession and its ability to solve future food challenges.

A second major component of the Future Food 2050 initiative is also well underway: a feature-length documentary that will focus on how food science will improve the world through sustainable solutions. By focusing our dialogue on science, this film will educate the public on the critical role food science and technology will play in solving our future global challenges.